If you lead a busy lifestyle, it can be easy to fall off track when it comes to healthy eating. Working long hours or constantly rushing around means it’s more convenient to grab something quick to eat, but this will probably result in you picking up something unhealthy.
Living on a diet of fast food will lead to long-term health conditions, such as diabetes and obesity, so it is best to steer clear of these foods from the outset.
Just because you lead a busy lifestyle, though, doesn’t mean you have to let your diet suffer. There are plenty of ways to maintain a healthy, balanced diet at the same time.
Here are just a few:
Plan and prepare food in advance
While you might not have time to prepare food each evening, that’s not to say you can’t plan and prepare your meals in advance. Dedicate a day or evening at the weekend to plan your meals for the week and prepare them as much as you can.
This could involve cooking meals in batch and then storing them in the freezer. That way, you can return home after a busy day and simply reheat the meal when you come to eat it during the week.
This is a much cheaper alternative to buying ready-made meals out, as well as giving you the opportunity to include the freshest, healthiest ingredients.
Set your alarm earlier
Many people get into the habit of skipping breakfast in the morning and grabbing a coffee instead. Caffeine won’t help to give your body the energy it needs, so instead, set your alarm 15 minutes earlier than you would normally wake up.
By doing this, you will be able to cook up a quick, healthy breakfast, such as scrambled eggs, avocado and smoked salmon, or porridge with blueberries and banana.
You’ll be surprised by how much difference setting your alarm that little bit earlier really makes. You will also be less inclined to snack on unhealthy treats throughout your day because your body will have the fuel it needs to see you through to lunchtime.
Switch to wholegrain
If you typically choose to eat white carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta and potatoes, switch them for healthier versions. Wholegrain bread and pasta, quinoa and sweet potatoes are all better options, and still just as delicious.
Making this swap will reap rewards for your body in the long-run.
Avoid eating late
It’s no good getting into the habit of eating really late. This won’t give your food much time to settle and digest before you head to bed.
By preparing your meals in advance, you will be able to carry them in a Tupperware box when you are out and about. This way, you can eat your healthy, pre-made meals at a reasonable hour on days when you know you won’t be home until late.
Carry healthy snacks
If you like to snack during the day, but tend to reach for unhealthy foods like crisps and chocolate, switch to healthier alternatives.
Nuts, fruit, and vegetables like carrot sticks and celery are just a few options. You could even prepare a healthy tomato and avocado dip or hummus to dip your vegetables into.
